Author: John Mulindi
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How the Wiegand Effect is used in Sensing Instruments
The Concept behind Wiegand Effect Based Sensors The Wiegand effect technology employs the unique magnetic properties of specially processed, small-diameter ferromagnetic wire. By causing the magnetic field of this wire to abruptly reverse, a sharp, uniform voltage is generated. This pulse is referred to as a Wiegand pulse. Sensors employing this effect need only…
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Piezoelectric Accelerometer: Principle of Operation & Applications
An accelerometer is a sensor that is designed to measure acceleration or rate of change of speed due to motion, vibration e.g. from rotating equipment and impact events such as the deployment of an automobile airbag. Accelerometers are usually mechanically attached or bonded to an object or structure for which acceleration is to be measured.…
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The USB-6009 Data Acquisition Card Features
The USB-6009 is a small external data acquisition and control device manufactured by National Instruments that is normally connected to a computer through a USB port. It is used in applications such as simple data logging, academic lab experiments and portable measurements. This device has analogue to digital (A/D) conversion capabilities as well as digital…
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How X-Y Tables are used in Position Control Applications
X-Y tables are utilized as components in many systems where reprogrammable position control is desired. The X-Y table is two servo-controlled linear actuators (often servomotors and ball screws) with their linear axes perpendicular to each other. The X-Y table may move the table under a stationary tool such as a glue dispenser or may move…
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Techniques used in Stopping DC Motors
Stopping of a motor is actually a form of speed control. Methods used to stop DC motors are in a way similar to speed control techniques. To stop a motor, you must accelerate in the direction opposite to that in which it is moving. There are two techniques of electrically stopping a DC motor, namely:…
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Microwave Spectroscopy: Features, Types & Applications
Microwave Spectroscopy The section of the electromagnetic spectrum extending approximately from 1 mm (300,000 MHz) to 30 cm (1000 MHz) is referred to as the microwave region. Spectroscopic applications of microwaves consist of almost exclusively of absorption work in gaseous samples. With some exceptions, the various types of spectra are distinguished by their energy origins.…
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Vision Sensors: Features, Concepts & Applications in Manufacturing
Vision Sensors A vision sensor is basically a TV camera connected to a computer, usually a PC. Special vision software analyzes the video image and makes specific recommendation to the work area. Vision systems require computing power to process thousands of pixels of information continuously in order to arrive at a go/no-go decision about what…
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Steam Sampling for Conductivity: Instrumentation Structure
Sampling Systems The Purpose of Sampling Systems The objective of a sampling system is to obtain a truly sample of the solid, liquid or gas to be analyzed, at an adequate and steady rate, and transport it without change to the analysis instrument, while ensuring that all the necessary precautions are taken to make this…
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How Cascade Control System Enhances Dynamic Response to Load Changes
The major limitation of a conventional feedback control system is that the correction for disturbances does not start until the process output deviates from the setpoint. Feedforward control provides big improvements in processes with large time constraints or time delays. But, feedforward control requires that the disturbances be measured explicitly and a model must be…
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Cable Screens: Types & Connections
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is one of the key factors of consideration in the design, construction, manufacture and installation of electrical and electronic equipment and systems. Electrical equipment must be designed not only to meet a functional technical performance specification but due consideration must also be given to the interaction the equipment has with the electromagnetic…